Drift Hotel San Jose del Cabo: An Incredible Getaway Experience

Last updated on March 11th, 2024 at 01:41 am

Being from California, I often forget how spoiled we are that places like Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are only a 3 hour plane ride away. As someone constantly seeking warm getaways (especially in the middle of winter), I’m always on the hunt for a destination, not too far from home, that has a healthy balance of relaxation and exploration. Turns out – a weekend away at Drift Hotel in San Jose del Cabo definitely fits the description. 

Located on the beautiful coastline of Cabo San Lucas in Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, the Drift Hotel in San Jose del Cabo is an absolute sanctuary of relaxation and adventure for travelers seeking an exceptional getaway. From breathtaking views of the Sea of Cortez to unique activities like surfing and yoga in the courtyard, the Drift Hotel provided everything I needed for an unforgettable yet rejuvenating escape from the cold, foggy city of San Francisco (sorry Karl – I don’t miss you one bit). For those that aren’t familiar, the fog in San Francisco is named Karl.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best times to visit Cabo, transportation options for getting to Drift Hotel, and a detailed look at the luxurious accommodations, specifically the Baja Room which is where I stayed for the weekend. I swear – every single corner of this hotel was so aesthetic, you can’t go wrong with any of the rooms. Additionally, we’ll also cover all the activities, amenities, and experiences available at Drift Hotel, ensuring an exciting and unforgettable stay. 

This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Getting to Drift Hotel San Jose del Cabo

So, chances are that you’ll be flying directly into Cabo when planning your weekend escape to Drift. As always, I flew United Airlines direct from San Francisco to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). I think I used miles for this trip because I knew that heading to Mexico on a holiday weekend would be pricier than normal. Ps. If your home airport is SFO, LAX, DEN, IAH, or EWR – I highly recommending checking out the United Explorer Card to earn free miles. (I personally carry the Infinite Card but that’s because I need lounge access to work remotely during my trips).

Since this was another solo trip for me, I made sure to pre-book my transportation. I used GetYourGuide (like I always do) to book roundtrip transportation to/from Drift. I pretty much always do this when I’m traveling alone because I don’t want to deal with getting harassed by vendors/taxi drivers as soon as I land and just want to get to my hotel without any hassle (or added anxiety). When I cleared immigration, I went outside to some big green umbrellas and easily found my driver. I’ll actually be coming back for a bachelorette party later this year and will definitely be using this service again to book our ride. Apparently, you can even add a stop to the grocery store along the way for only $20 USD. 

The actual drive from SJD to Drift took around ~45 minutes and the ride was very pleasant thanks to the AC being on full blast and a friendly driver. 

Best Time to Visit San Jose del Cabo

San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas are destinations that bask in sunshine year-round, but the ideal time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re like me, then you’re probably always looking to getaway from where you live during winter. There’s nothing I crave more than a day in the sun near a warm, turquoise ocean – especially when February rolls around and the sun is nowhere to be found in Northern California. (I’m being dramatic I know but I really hate the cold you guys) 

For those who wish to escape the chill of winter, booking a stay between November and May is perfect. The weather is warm and dry during these months, with daytime temperatures in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit (21-27°C). This is also the peak season for cultural events, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local festivities.

Alternatively, for travelers looking for less crowds and lower rates, the summers offer hot, sunny days best enjoyed by the pool or at sea. Plus, if you visit from June to October, you’ll usually get the opportunity to go whale watching! Also, did I mention that summer is the best time to enjoy those luxury resorts at a massive discount? 

Regardless of when you visit, Drift serves as a year-round oasis, pairing your stay with the splendor of the Baja seasons.

Rooms and Accommodation at Drift Hotel

One of the biggest reasons I chose to stay at Drift was due to its location and its impeccably designed rooms. (I’m an actual sucker for neutral and beige toned furniture). The rooms at Drift Hotel San Jose del Cabo are masterfully designed to blend in with the natural desert backdrop while offering a minimalist, airy feel that captures the essence of Baja. 

Drift is also located in the arts district (locals call it the Gallery District). The location is much more local-oriented and they even have art walks every Thursday night where locals come out to display and sell all sorts of creative works.

There are a few different room types but I stayed in the Baja Room where comfort meets rustic charm. My favorite part was being able to take in rooftop views of the pool and surrounding Gallery District directly from the Baja Room. Whether from a shared sundeck or private balcony, this space promises picturesque mornings and evenings.

Some Additional Room Highlights

• Queen bed
• Private bathroom or tub
• TV + Wi-Fi
• Locally sourced handwoven linens
• Curated bathroom amenities

Amenities and Experiences at Drift Hotel

After a long day of travel and getting settled in, now it’s time to explore all that Drift has to offer. At Drift, the details matter. Which is why they meticulously curated a selection of top-notch amenities that infuse local culture and ensure your experiences match the unique Baja vibe.

EAT + DRINK AT THE KITCHEN + MEZCAL BAR

I love staying at a hotel that actually has a good onsite restaurant and bar. With so many places to choose from in San Jose del Cabo, I was afraid that I’d be making a mistake by eating at the hotel bar, but the Kitchen + Mezcal Bar at Drift definitely did not disappoint. 

The Kitchen + Mezcal Bar at Drift is a full-service restaurant and bar that offers an all-day menu. The menu itself is a testament to local culinary traditions and regional specialties. While the food is great, the highlight of this place is definitely the mezcal cocktails which are expertly curated to capture the region’s essence. Each drink combines tradition and innovation, concocted with the finest local mezcal to please both connoisseurs and curious travelers. 

TAKE A REFRESHING DIP IN THE POOL 

The pool area is easily the most photogenic and vibrant centerpiece of the entire property. Here, you can live out those tranquil vacation dreams, with the serene Baja landscape. In this area, you’ll have the freedom to bask in the sun on a lounger, laze in a hammock, or take a refreshing dip surrounded by gentle palms. 

I’m not lying when I tell you that I probably spent 75% of my vacation at this pool. I’m normally not very good at relaxing but I was having the best time in the warm Baja sun, enjoying a mezcal cocktail with a sappy teenage romance novel in hand. 

PRACTICE MORNING YOGA

I always find it ironic that I travel to places that promote health and relaxation because as mentioned above, I’m the epitome of someone who finds it hard to relax. I love to move my body (while I still can) at least once a day – which is why I was so happy to find that Drift offers complimentary yoga mats and blocks for guests. 

They also offer a free guided yoga flow every Saturday at 8:30 AM in the courtyard. Unfortunately, I was headed on a tour to Balandra Beach that left at 5am that day so I wasn’t able to join. However, I did manage to get a good solo 45min flow in on Sunday. Am I crazy that exercise is my form of relaxation???

CATCH THE SURF

For those drawn to the waves, the complimentary surf package makes catching a break super easy and convenient. Personally, I’ve only ever tried surfing once in Hawaii but would definitely be down to try it again. Free for guests, the surf package includes everything you need for a day on the waves including a surfboard, a surf leash, and a car rack (if needed). Cabo is known for having pretty rough waters, which is why surfing is the perfect activity for those looking for a bit more adventure!

Overall, I can’t recommend this hotel enough for your next visit to San Jose del Cabo. I’d even go so far as recommending you skip the touristy heavy area of Cabo San Lucas altogether and come experience the real Baja California for yourself. Make sure you don’t forget to visit Todos Santos and La Paz as well. 

There’s clearly a never-ending list of things to do at Drift including lounging by the pool, trying out new cocktails from the Kitchen + Mezcal Bar, waking up for morning yoga, or catching the nearby waves at sunset. Visit any time of the year and discover why San Jose del Cabo is truly a desert paradise. 

So, what are you waiting for? Click here to book your stay at Drift Hotel.

Did you get a chance to visit San Jose del Cabo or stay at Drift Hotel? Let me know in the comments below. 

Visiting other parts of Mexico?

Check out my other travel guides on Mexico here.

Looking for travel inspiration to somewhere else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!